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Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Study Finds Increase in ADHD Diagnoses

Results of a large-scale study show that the rate of ADHD diagnoses has increased 24% since 2001.The findings, based on an analysis by the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Medical Group of medical records for more than 840,000 children, ages 5 to 11, also show that boys are three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed.In addition, researchers found that children in families with an annual household income of $300,000 or more are more likely to be diagnosed than those in lower-income families.The rise in ADHD diagnosis rates does not necessarily reflect an increase in the prevalence of the disorder.In fact, the study authors suggest the increase is likely the result of an improved understanding of ADHD among parents and the medical community.

“While the reasons for increasing ADHD rates are not well understood, contributing factors may include heightened awareness of ADHD among parents and physicians, which could have led to increased screening and treatment,” said lead author Darious Getahun, M.D., Ph.D.

Presumably, that’s good news. Children who have ADHD and are correctly diagnosed have a better chance of receiving appropriate treatment.

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Please join us at nesca-newton.com/nesca-notes for NESCA's new, award-winning blog. We deliver updates on significant developments in science, education and the law as they affect families of children with special needs, along with practical parenting advice and links to carefully screened and reliable sources of additional information.